CHART: Potential budget increase for Columbia waste removal

The Public Works Department’s proposal to convert the city to the roll cart trash collection system has the potential to more than double last year’s residential solid waste removal budget. The system allows for a more automated method of collection and is less strenuous on workers. The change would require the purchase of 44,000 carts and 10 new natural gas-powered collection trucks. The department says the method is safer for employees and projects a 75 percent decrease in workers’ compensation claims. The proposal, however, also calls for a net reduction of at least four residential staff employees. The City Council is set to vote on the proposal at Monday’s meeting.